Luminescent glass

Abstract

The present invention provides a process for producing a luminescent glass, comprising the steps of adsorbing, to a porous high silica glass, at least one metal component selected from the group consisting of elements of Groups IIIA, IVA, VA, VIA, VIIA, VIII, IB, IIB and IVB of the Periodic Table; and thereafter heating the porous glass in a reducing atmosphere. The luminescent glass obtained by the process is excellent in heat resistance, chemical durability, mechanical strength and other properties, and exhibits strong luminescence when irradiated with UV light or the like. The glass can be effectively used as a luminous body for lighting systems, display devices, etc.

1. A lighting system for use in water or air, comprising a luminescent glass and an ultraviolet light source;
 the luminescent glass being obtained by a process comprising the steps of adsorbing, to a porous high silica glass, at least one metal component selected from the group consisting of elements of Groups IIIA, IVA, VA, VIA, VIIA, VIII, IB, IIB and IVB of the Periodic Table; and thereafter heating the porous glass in a reducing atmosphere. 
 
     
     
       2. A lighting system according to  claim 1 , wherein the luminescent glass is obtained by the process which further comprises, before the heating step, the step of adsorbing, to the porous glass, at least one element selected from the group consisting of B, N, F, Al, P and S. 
     
     
       3. A lighting system comprising a luminescent glass disposed in water; an ultraviolet light source placed outside water; and an optical fiber provided so that one end of the optical fiber connected to the ultraviolet light source and the other end is located in the vicinity of the luminescent glass;
 the luminescent glass being obtained by a process comprising the steps of adsorbing, to a porous high silica glass, at least one metal component selected from the group consisting of elements of Groups IIIA, IVA, VA, VIA, VIIA, VIII, IB, IIB and IVB of the Periodic Table; and thereafter heating the porous glass in a reducing atmosphere. 
 
     
     
       4. A lighting system according to  claim 3 , wherein the luminescent glass is obtained by the process which further comprising, before the heating step, the step of adsorbing, to the porous glass, at least one element selected from the group consisting of B, N, F, Al, P and S.